1999 Ford Explorer
Introduction:
The 1999 Ford Explorer was a popular mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior, strong engine options, and versatile capabilities. The Explorer came with several engine and transmission choices: a 4.0L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission, and a 5.0L V8 engine mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the Explorer earned praise for its practicality and performance, it has also encountered various issues over the years.
Engine
4.0L V6 Engine
- Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) Failure: The IMRC system controls the flow of air into the engine and can fail, causing a loss of power and rough idling.
- Solution: Replace the IMRC actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
5.0L V8 Engine
- Spark Plug Blowout: Under certain conditions, the spark plugs can blow out of the cylinder heads, causing catastrophic engine damage.
- Solution: Install updated cylinder heads and spark plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
- Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 02V059000
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission
- Clutch Failure: The clutch can wear out prematurely, leading to difficulty shifting gears or loss of power.
- Solution: Replace the clutch kit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Torque Converter Shudder: The torque converter can develop a shudder under acceleration, especially when the vehicle is cold.
- Solution: Flush and replace the transmission fluid and filter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Ball Joint Failure: The ball joints can wear prematurely, causing a clunking noise and decreased handling.
- Solution: Replace the ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaf Spring Sag: The leaf springs can sag over time, leading to a lower ride height and decreased handling.
- Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure: The alternator can fail, leaving the vehicle without power.
- Solution: Replace the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain: The vehicle can experience a parasitic battery drain, causing the battery to go dead prematurely.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the drain.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door Lock Failure: The door locks can become inoperative due to a faulty actuator or wiring.
- Solution: Replace the door lock actuator or repair the wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
- Tailgate Lock Failure: The tailgate lock can fail, making it difficult to open or close the tailgate.
- Solution: Replace the tailgate lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can develop cracks due to exposure to heat and sunlight.
- Solution: Replace the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Center Console Lid Failure: The center console lid can break or detach from the console.
- Solution: Replace the center console lid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 Ford Explorer has encountered various issues, with some being more severe and expensive than others. The engine has issues with the intake manifold runner control (IMRC) and spark plug blowout, while the transmission can experience clutch failure and torque converter shudder. The suspension can suffer from ball joint failure and leaf spring sag. Electrical issues include alternator failure and battery drain. Exterior issues include door lock failure and tailgate lock failure. Finally, the interior can have issues with dashboard cracking and center console lid failure. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues can vary, but it’s important to be aware of these potential problems to make informed decisions about ownership and maintenance.